Campground reservation system begins transition

May 5, 2013

MARQUETTE - Campers looking to book online reservations for state parks this summer will have less time to do so as the state revamps its reservation system.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources officials said the agency is preparing for a Nov. 1 Central Reservation System transition to a new vendor, Camis, Inc., headquartered in Ann Arbor.

This transition will have short-term impacts to customers making campground reservations beginning this month.

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Campers enjoy a fire at Van Riper State Park near Champion. The state’s campground reservation system is undergoing changes, which could pose some delays for those making camping reservations this summer. (Journal file photo)

DNR officials said reservations for campsites typically have a six-month window for advance booking. However, as the transition date approaches, this window will shrink.

Campsite reservations can be made in the current system, either online or through the call center, for stays through the end of October. Reservations in the new system will be accepted beginning November.

The DNR said Camis will provide a improved reservation system for managing state park and harbor reservations. When the DNR fully transfers to the new system in November, the six-month window of advance registration for campsites will be restored.

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"When we fully transition to the new reservation software, our customers will have access to a robust online reservation system that will offer broader search capabilities and campsite photos," said Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation Division chief. "This advanced software will allow us to capture the beauty of our state parks and share that with our guests when they make reservations."